Excellence in English education since 2008
Exceptional English language instruction with personalized attention, proven results, and guaranteed outcomes for international students.
Our story
Since its founding in 2008, American English Language School has been dedicated to providing high-quality English language instruction to international and local students seeking to improve their academic, professional, and everyday communication skills. Located in Southern California, AELS offers a rigorous, student-centered curriculum designed to promote rapid language acquisition and cultural understanding.
Our experienced instructors, small class sizes, and individualized support ensure that each student receives the attention and guidance necessary to achieve their goals. Whether preparing for academic advancement, career development, or personal enrichment, students at AELS benefit from a structured, immersive learning environment.
We prioritize integrity, professionalism, and student success. We are SEVP-certified to issue Form I-20 for F-1 visa applicants, and we also serve as an official TOEFL iBT testing center.
The ESL Guarantee Program
Complete one full year
Finish 4 consecutive quarters of ESL instruction and complete Level 5 of our program.
Reach a 3.5 TOEFL band
We guarantee you'll achieve a minimum TOEFL iBT band score of 3.5 — equivalent to 70 on the previous 120-point scale.
Or study free
If you don't reach it, you receive one additional quarter of ESL classes completely free of charge.
Accreditations & certifications.
AELS meets the highest standards in English language education and student safety.
CEA Accredited
Accredited by the Commission on English Language Program Accreditation (CEA) from August 2019 through August 2029, upholding the CEA Standards for English Language Programs.
Read more →SEVP / SEVIS Approved
Authorized under federal law to enroll nonimmigrant alien students and to issue Form I-20 for F-1 student visas.
Read more →BPPE Approved
Approved to operate by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, in compliance with the California Private Postsecondary Act of 2009.
Read more →TESOL Member
Our teachers are TESOL members who receive annual training through TESOL conferences to stay current in language education.
Read more →TOEFL iBT Testing Center
An authorized TOEFL iBT testing center since 2009, administering tests two to three times per month in a familiar environment for our students.
Read more →DOJ / FBI Clearance
We use Live Scan fingerprinting for thorough DOJ and FBI background checks on all teachers, ensuring a safe learning environment.
Read more →Three campuses across Southern California.
Visit any of our locations to experience our commitment to excellence in English language education.
Los Angeles
Experience vibrant city life and cultural diversity while building your English skills.
3230 East Imperial Hwy, Suite 125
Brea, CA 92821
Orange County (Fullerton)
Study in a calm, family-friendly environment perfect for focused and supportive learning.
223 Imperial Hwy, Suite 115
Fullerton, CA 92835
Irvine
Learn in a modern, safe city known for academic excellence and innovation.
10 Corporate Park, Suite 100
Irvine, CA 92606
Experienced, caring instructors.
TESOL-certified professionals who excel in teaching methodology and genuinely care about each student's progress.
Philip P.
26-year ESL veteran who empowers adult learners, builds confidence, and embraces cultural diversity.
Meet Philip →Victoria E.
Psychology BA & Org Psych MA; a communicative-teaching specialist who is student-centered and welcoming.
Meet Victoria →Cassandra C.
English Ed BA, 10-year ESL instructor and TOEFL-certified mentor who empowers international students.
Meet Cassandra →Kristen O.
English Ed BA & TESOL-certified, 20-year ESL educator and TOEFL & business-English specialist focused on confidence-building.
Meet Kristen →Shireen K.
Full bio coming soon.
What our students say.
5,000+ students graduated, with near-perfect reviews on Yelp, Google, Language International, and Course Finder.
Small class sizes gave me the confidence to speak English every day
After trying larger schools, I found AELS and everything changed. The teachers gave me personal attention, and with only 6 students in my class, I had to participate and speak English constantly. In one year, I improved enough to pass my TOEFL with an 81!
— Wei Zhang
The TOEFL preparation program exceeded all my expectations
I enrolled in the TOEFL program and was amazed by the approach. Each day we focused on a specific skill and practiced with authentic exam questions every Thursday. Our experienced instructors provided prompt feedback that helped me overcome my weaknesses.
— Sophie Moore
Their guarantee program truly delivered on its promise
I was skeptical about the guarantee program, but decided to commit to a full year. The location is beautiful and convenient, and the professional teaching staff made all the difference. I can now confidently communicate in English for everyday and work situations.
— Carlos Mendez
Frequently asked questions.
How do I submit an application?+
What results can I expect from AELS programs?+
What is required to complete my application?+
When are classes offered?+
How much does it cost to apply?+
What is the I-20 form, and can AELS issue it?+
When are the start dates?+
Come see what makes us different.
Tell us a little about yourself and we'll help you find the right program and campus.
Inquire Today